Our Summary

This paper explores the issue of a deformity known as “saddle deformity” which can occur after a type of nasal surgery called septoplasty. Of the 658 patients who had this surgery, 14 showed signs of saddle deformity and had immediate corrective treatment.

The study found that this deformity was more likely if the patient’s nasal septum (the wall between the nostrils) was deviated towards the front or center of the nose, or in the upper or middle parts of the septum.

The good news is that the immediate corrective treatment worked well. The patients’ symptoms improved significantly from before the operation to one month afterwards, and continued to improve up to three months after the operation. This suggests that the corrective procedure is a safe and effective way to deal with saddle deformity after septoplasty.

In simple terms, if you have a septoplasty and end up with a saddle-shaped deformity, immediate corrective treatment can help to fix it. The study also suggests doctors should be aware of the risk of saddle deformity, especially if the patient’s septum is already deviated in certain ways.

FAQs

  1. What is a saddle deformity that can occur after septoplasty?
  2. What factors increase the likelihood of developing saddle deformity after a septoplasty?
  3. How effective is the immediate corrective treatment for saddle deformity after septoplasty?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that if they experience any changes in their nasal shape or breathing difficulties after septoplasty, they should seek immediate medical attention to address any potential saddle deformity. Early intervention can help prevent long-term issues and improve the overall outcome of the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for septoplasty are those who have a deviated septum, which can cause difficulty breathing, recurrent sinus infections, nosebleeds, or snoring. Septoplasty is often recommended for patients who have tried other conservative treatments such as medications or nasal sprays without success.

In particular, patients with a deviated septum that is causing significant symptoms or impacting their quality of life may be good candidates for septoplasty. Patients with a history of nasal trauma or injury may also benefit from septoplasty to correct any resulting deformities.

Overall, septoplasty is a common procedure that can help improve nasal breathing and alleviate symptoms associated with a deviated septum. It is important for patients to discuss their symptoms and concerns with their healthcare provider to determine if septoplasty is the right option for them.

Timeline

Before septoplasty:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as difficulty breathing through the nose, frequent nosebleeds, facial pain or pressure, and nasal congestion.
  • Patient consults with an ear, nose, and throat specialist who diagnoses a deviated septum and recommends septoplasty.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and preparations for the surgery.

After septoplasty:

  • Patient undergoes septoplasty surgery to correct the deviated septum.
  • Patient may experience some pain, swelling, and congestion in the days following the surgery.
  • Patient follows post-operative care instructions, including taking prescribed medications, using nasal sprays, and avoiding strenuous activities.
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  • If saddle deformity occurs, immediate corrective treatment is provided to improve symptoms and the deformity. Symptoms continue to improve over the following months.
  • Patient experiences improved nasal breathing and relief from symptoms such as congestion and nosebleeds.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Questions a patient should ask their doctor about septoplasty:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of septoplasty, including the risk of saddle deformity?
  2. How common is saddle deformity after septoplasty, and what factors may increase the risk for this complication?
  3. How is saddle deformity diagnosed and treated, and what is the timeline for corrective treatment?
  4. What are the expected outcomes and recovery timeline for patients who undergo corrective treatment for saddle deformity after septoplasty?
  5. Are there any specific precautions or measures I can take to reduce the risk of developing saddle deformity after septoplasty?
  6. What is the experience and expertise of the surgeon in performing septoplasty and managing complications such as saddle deformity?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that may be considered to address saddle deformity if it occurs after septoplasty?
  8. How will my post-operative care plan be tailored to help prevent or address saddle deformity after septoplasty?
  9. Can you provide me with information or resources to learn more about saddle deformity and its management after septoplasty?

Reference

Authors: Kim J, Kim CH, Oh JH, Choi G, Kwon JH. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2020 Jan/Feb;31(1):e62-e65. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000005898. PMID: 31633674